Local children are all smiles at last year’s Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank Farm Summer Camp. Courtesy photo

ORANGEVALE-FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) - Summer is approaching and it's almost time for farm camp at the Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank Farm.

Three farm camps run from June 12 to 14, July 17 to 19, and Aug. 7 to 9. The three-day sessions run from 8 to 11 a.m. Registration is open to students entering first- to fifth-grade in the 2024/2025 school year.

The program offers local children a hands-on exploration of food systems, agriculture and community involvement. Through interactive and engaging learning activities, children emerge with a newfound understanding of their role in shaping a sustainable and compassionate future.

Farm camp volunteer and Future Farmers of America member Aliyah Wong describes the camp as a way to teach participants about farming in an immersive environment while fostering a connection to agriculture and food. Food systems are not necessarily something residents think of when it comes to local agriculture, according to Wong.

 Summer break can be fun and educational at the same time. Courtesy photo

Wong has volunteered at the Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank Farm summer camp for several years, something she takes pride in.

"I am very big on community service and I like teaching people more about ag, things they didn't necessarily know before. I think it's important to know where your food comes from,” Wong said.

Wong particularly likes how farm camp integrates community values into the camp activities. Camp participants take a food bank tour and learn how the farm and the food bank work together to help the community. The Food Bank Farm provides fresh produce to all residents in need and the farm grew more than 300 pounds of fresh produce in the last month alone.

Each week at farm camp has a different theme so children can participate in all three but the activities and primary curriculum are similar. Children rotate activities and delve into various topics, such as seed germination, pollination, insect lifecycles, composting, garden care and food preservation.

Farm camp guarantees an adventurous and enriching summer experience for youth. They can explore exciting topics, get their hands dirty and develop a deeper appreciation for the crucial role of agriculture in nourishing the community.

Register for one week or all three weeks at https://www.foodbank.farm/farm-camp. Space is limited to 30 campers per session.